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Policy Climates and Reductions in Automobile Use

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  • Erika Borek
  • Stephanie A. Bohon

Abstract

Objectives. This study examines how national environmental policy influences individual car‐driving behavior in the European Union. Methods. Using the International Social Survey: Environment II in conjunction with the 2001 and 2002 Environmental Sustainability Indices, we analyze the relationship between macro‐level policy indicators and the reported reduction of individual car driving for environmental reasons, controlling for meso‐ and micro‐level factors. Results. Our results show that individuals report a greater likelihood of driving less for environmental reasons when they live in nations that adopt strong pro‐environmental policies, even when such policies are not directly related to car use. Conclusions. Our finding that a national policy climate focused on environmental sustainability is associated with pro‐environmental behaviors among individuals in that nation encourages us to believe that greater international cooperation on environmental issues (such as the Kyoto Protocol) and increased strength of domestic environmental policies will positively change individual behavior.

Suggested Citation

  • Erika Borek & Stephanie A. Bohon, 2008. "Policy Climates and Reductions in Automobile Use," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 89(5), pages 1293-1311, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:89:y:2008:i:5:p:1293-1311
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-6237.2008.00579.x
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    1. Karst T. Geurs & Bert van Wee, 2006. "Ex-post Evaluation of Thirty Years of Compact Urban Development in the Netherlands," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 43(1), pages 139-160, January.
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    3. Schwanen, Tim & Mokhtarian, Patricia L., 2005. "What Affects Commute Mode Choice: Neighborhood Physical Structure or Preferences Toward Neighborhoods?," University of California Transportation Center, Working Papers qt4nq9r1c9, University of California Transportation Center.
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    1. Schuetzenmeister, Falk, 2009. "Global Warming And Lifestyle Choices: A Discussion Paper," Institute of European Studies, Working Paper Series qt6xs1c91n, Institute of European Studies, UC Berkeley.
    2. López-Mosquera, Natalia & Lera-López, Fernando & Sánchez, Mercedes, 2015. "Key factors to explain recycling, car use and environmentally responsible purchase behaviors: A comparative perspective," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 99(C), pages 29-39.

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